Youcao (simplified: 幽草, traditional: 幽草, pinyin: Yōu Cǎo, jyutping: jau1 cou2) was a maid at Mantuo Manor. She was known for her strict adherence to manor rules and her vigilant monitoring of visitors.
Biography
Service at Mantuo Manor
Youcao served as a maid at Mantuo Manor, wearing distinctive green clothing that identified her as part of the manor’s staff. Her primary responsibilities included receiving visitors and enforcing the manor’s strict rules, particularly the prohibition against male visitors.
Reception of Duan Yu and Yun Mengfei
When Duan Yu and Yun Mengfei arrived at Mantuo Manor, Youcao immediately became suspicious of their male identity. She maintained a vigilant watch over their activities and reported their movements to Granny Ping, attempting to persuade them to leave the manor in accordance with the strict rules against male visitors.
Interaction with Azhu and Abi
Youcao was familiar with Azhu and Abi, two regular visitors to the manor. She accompanied the three women to a manor cottage, showing her role in facilitating visits for approved guests while maintaining the manor’s security protocols.
Reporting to Madam Wang
When Madam Wang returned to the manor, Youcao rushed to report the situation, particularly regarding Duan Yu’s presence. She then stood by Madam Wang’s side to identify Duan Yu, demonstrating her commitment to proper reporting procedures.
Friendship with Azhu and Abi
Youcao maintained a close friendship with Azhu and Abi, often expressing her desire to spend more time with them. She would frequently ask them to stay longer at the manor, showing her genuine affection for the two young women and her loneliness in her role as a manor maid.
Role in the rescue attempt
When Azhu and Abi were captured and sent to the “flower fertilizer room,” Youcao played a crucial role in attempting to rescue them. She informed Wang Yuyan about their situation and helped coordinate the rescue effort, demonstrating her loyalty to her friends despite the risks involved.
Personality and traits
Personality and traits
Youcao demonstrated a strong sense of duty and loyalty to Mantuo Manor and its rules. Her vigilant nature was evident in her careful monitoring of visitors, particularly her wariness of male guests. She showed strict adherence to protocol, immediately reporting any violations to her superiors.
Professional demeanor
Youcao acted as a gatekeeper and enforcer of the manor’s policies, ensuring that all visitors complied with the established regulations. Her role exemplified the comprehensive security system at Mantuo Manor, where even maids were trained to identify and report potential violations.
Relationships
Villa hierarchy
Youcao maintained professional relationships with the manor’s staff and visitors. Her primary relationship was with her superiors, particularly Granny Ping and Madam Wang, to whom she reported regularly. She was familiar with Azhu and Abi, showing a more relaxed attitude toward approved female visitors while maintaining strict vigilance against male intruders.
Behind the scenes
Youcao represents the type of loyal servant who strictly enforced the rules of their household, demonstrating the rigid social structure within Mantuo Manor. Her character serves as a foil to highlight the manor’s strict policies regarding male visitors and shows how even minor characters can significantly impact the plot through their adherence to established protocols.